These stories come straight from the heart. They're true life experiences and honest opinions written (or drawn, in Toby Morris' case) over the past year by our contributors.
Growing up Christian was a formative experience for Eli Matthewson. But it wasn't altogether positive.
9. I'm gay: One woman's coming out story
Not everyone's coming out story is a Creed lunging-on-the-clifftop-with-arms-wide-open one. Here's Laura Vincent's.
One of the most common New Year’s resolutions is to cut back on the booze. Jackson Wood gave up and has only one complaint: stop forcing OJ on the sober drivers.
7. Things you lose, things you gain
Sebastian Boyle dropped 70kg over nine months. Then he discovered losing weight came with its own set of problems.
What does it mean to be left behind when all your friends have gone on their OE? Story by Pip Howells.
The way that Lorde calls attention to how she's treated in the music industry made Ally Garrett fall in love with her all over again.
4. A portrait of an artist as a young man
"There's something almost supernatural about taking testosterone ... you wake up to strange and unfamiliar things." Sylvan Thomson on gender identity.
Sylvan Thomson Photo: Supplied
3. What works and what doesn't
Your job can take an enormous toll on your mental health. Eamonn Mara, who suffers from anxiety and depressive episodes, shares stories from his time in the workforce.
Alex McKewen doesn't wear cardigans, doesn't consider himself a feminist and has never made a political statement. But he took his wife's last name.
Social media is a mirror that reflects our own views back at us. Comic by Toby Morris, as part of The Pencilsword series.